President Cyril Ramaphosa has offered his heartfelt condolences to Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema following the death of his grandmother, Koko Sarah Malema.
“The President’s thoughts and prayers are with Mr Malema, his family and his organisation as they take leave of a matriarch who had played a significant role in her family and in the life of Mr Malema in particular,” reads a statement from the presidency.
Ramaphosa also said: “This bereavement is felt more sorely because of the special relationship Mr Malema enjoyed with his grandmother. I too have fond memories of Koko Malema following an opportunity I had to speak to her when she was in hospital. It is my hope that Mr Malema will draw strength from his beloved grandmother’s values and her presence in his life.”
Tributes have also been pouring in on social media:
Heartfelt condolences @Julius_S_Malema and family on the passing of your beloved grandmother Gogo Sarah Malema. May you find solace in the great love and delightful moments you shared #RIPSarahMalema pic.twitter.com/SfqhELRG89
— Prof Thuli Madonsela (@ThuliMadonsela3) May 4, 2019
may we as the Church convey a condolences to Mr Julius Malema and his entire family for the loss of their grandmother. may the peace of Christ accompanied by light of salvation to the whole family
— Moshosho fire (@ProphetMoshosho) May 4, 2019
Zim EFF would like to express deepest revolutionary condolences to EFF CIC Julius Malema, the entire Malema Family and to the EFF family for the untimely passing on of Koko Sarah Malema .May the fond memories of your departed grandmother bring you comfort at this difficult time
— Siphosenkosi Matshokomola Bhalule (@SiphoPhani) May 5, 2019
CIC Julius Malema’s grandmother passed away. heartfelt condolence to Malema family and the EFF. ????????
— Mmadikgosi Matshego (@Mmadikgosi_23) May 4, 2019
It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of @EFFSouthAfrica CIC Julius Malema’s Grandmother, Koko Sarah Malema, a few hours ago from an epileptic fit. May Her Dear Soul Rest in Peace???????????????????????? @Julius_S_Malema
— Hon. Temba P. Mliswa (@TembaMliswa) May 4, 2019